Kukla's Korner Hockey

Winnipeg general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has begun the interviewing process in the search for a head coach.

Sources say NHL on TSN panelist Craig MacTavish is expected to meet with Cheveldayoff either Wednesday or Thursday and is considered a strong candidate for the job.

It’s unclear as to how many names are on Winnipeg’s short list, however, Manitoba Moose head coach Claude Noel and Chicago Blackhawks assistant coach Mike Haviland are also believed to be high on the list.

Noel is employed by the Vancouver Canucks and sources say the Canucks would like his fate determined by next week, in the event he is promoted to the NHL, and Vancouver has to hire his AHL replacement.

Existing coach Craig Ramsay also remains in the mix and will be interviewed for the position.